Indiana rewarded football coach Curt Cignetti for his miraculous turnaround by giving him a new contract that nearly doubles his salary.
The Hoosiers announced a new eight-year deal for Cignetti that averages $8 million, plus an annual $1 million retention bonus. It runs through the end of the 2032 regular season.
Cignetti’s original contract paid him a $4.25 million base salary this year. The move will jump him from near the bottom in Big Ten coaching pay to the top five, according to USA Today’s coaching salary database.
After going 52-9 in five years at James Madison, Cignetti has led Indiana to one of the best seasons in school history. The undefeated Hoosiers are ranked No. 5 and have already set a program record with 10 victories. According to The Athletic’s projections model, Indiana has a 92 percent chance to make the College Football Playoff.
“Since arriving on campus, coach Cignetti has been the architect of one of college football’s greatest turnarounds and has shown the world that IU is also a football school,” school president Pamela Whitten said in a news release. “Coach Cignetti exemplifies IU’s goal to win in all that we do. The success he has brought to Indiana football is shining a light on all that is amazing about Indiana University. We are excited that coach Cignetti and his wonderful family will be a part of the Hoosier Nation for many years to come.”
Indiana is off this week before next Saturday’s showdown at No. 2 Ohio State and the regular-season finale against rival Purdue.
“I am beyond appreciative for the tremendous commitment, confidence, and support from president Pam Whitten and athletic director Scott Dolson,” Cignetti said in the release. “I look forward to leading this outstanding program and doing my part to continue the momentum for Hoosier football.”
(Photo: Justin Casterline / Getty Images)
